Atrial fibrillation is one of the most common arrhythmias in the adult population. It is characterized by an irregular heart rhythm, it can be completely asymptomatic or present in different ways, such as shortness of breath, palpitations, chest pain and fatigue. Certainly the most difficult presentation of atrial fibrillation is a stroke, the consequences of which, if the outcome is not fatal, can significantly affect the patient's quality of life. People with atrial fibrillation have a significantly increased risk of stroke, and almost a quarter of all strokes in the elderly are related to atrial fibrillation. With an increasing incidence and a possible poor prognosis, patients with atrial fibrillation represent a significant challenge in the daily practice of family medicine doctors. Treatment of atrial fibrillation includes control of heart rhythm and frequency, prevention of thromboembolic events and management of all associated cardiometabolic risk factors. Stroke prevention is one of the basis of treatment for people with atrial fibrillation. Stroke prophylaxis consists of two groups of oral anticoagulant drugs. These are vitamin K antagonists and new or direct anticoagulant drugs that act as direct inhibitors of factor Xa or thrombin. Before the introduction of oral anticoagulant therapy, the family medicine doctor has to determine the risk of thromboembolic incident and the risk of bleeding. If anticoagulation therapy is indicated, the selection of the best drug should be based on the patient's preferences and the presence of comorbidities. With good communication and a comprehensive approach to the patient, which includes patient education and treating all risk factors that increase the risk of stroke and bleeding, oral anticoagulant therapy is currently the best choice in preventing complications that come with the diagnosis of atrial fibrillation.